Llanwddyn’s local history is closely connected to Lake Vyrnwy. Changes to the valley are reflected in its religious buildings and a memorial; Glyndŵr’s Way adds two stages with different routes to the picture of the area. This makes it possible to consider history, walking routes and the Lake Vyrnwy nature reserve as distinct focal points for your stay.

The Valley’s History and Buildings

The old village of Llanwddyn and all the buildings in the valley that were due to be covered by the lake’s waters were demolished. This history is closely connected to the flooding of the Vyrnwy Valley and the creation of the reservoir.

The two religious buildings have different connections to this change. St. Wddyn’s Church was built as a replacement for the Llanwddyn parish church, destroyed by the flooding of the Vyrnwy Valley, and was completed in 1887. Bethel Methodist Chapel was built in 1889 after its original site was flooded for the Lake Vyrnwy reservoir. It is built in the Gothic style; its features include stone walls, a slate roof and a Short-Wall-plan entrance.

The Llanwddyn Obelisk is about eight metres high and commemorates 44 workers who died during construction of the Lake Vyrnwy dam and associated reservoir works. A public footpath leads from the hotel car park to the obelisk. The memorial and path therefore link a specific destination with the history of the reservoir works.

Sections of Glyndŵr’s Way

The 18-mile (29 km) section of Glyndŵr’s Way from Llanbrynmair to Llanwddyn leads into the village and offers views of Lake Vyrnwy and the dam. The 15-mile (24 km) section from Llanwddyn to Meifod leaves the reservoir and then follows parts of the River Vyrnwy before reaching Meifod. The exact route of this stage can also change. The two stages therefore differ both in length and in their landscape: on the way to Llanwddyn, the lake and dam are in view, while the section from Llanwddyn leads away from the reservoir to parts of the river. When choosing a route, you can consider which direction and landscape best suit your plans. Route conditions and diversions can change; check the current route before setting out.

Lake Vyrnwy and the Nature Reserve

Lake Vyrnwy is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a National Nature Reserve (NNR). The RSPB Lake Vyrnwy nature reserve is open year-round; it also has extensive public access and rights of way. Wildlife in the reserve includes pied flycatchers, marsh tits, peregrine falcons, black grouse and hen harriers. The designations and the species listed offer two different ways to understand the natural environment.

There are public toilets in Llanwddyn village. This practical information complements the guidance on local history, walking routes and the nature reserve.

Discover more destinations: Clyro, Knighton, Aberhosan, Cwm-twrch Uchaf, Llanwrtyd Wells, Cwmdu, Llanafanfawr, Pencelli

For the wider travel overview: Powys.